The Management of the National Port Authority (NPA) has announced the introduction of a Cargo Tracking Note (CTN) and Advanced Cargo Declaration System (ACD), an Internationally recognized standard and global initiative that monitors and verifies cargo on transit to all Ports of entry in Liberia.
According to a press release, the CTN and ACD are high technological methods that provide real-time monitoring of security plan of vessels; allow real time generation of advanced information on cargo, including type, origin, quantity and other shipment information.
They also generate automatic information alert for the port of destination.The release says this system, when put into effect, will further enhance security and safety of ports and cargo; prevent under-declaration of gross registered tonnage (GRT) of ship; prevent under-declaration and concealment of cargo; improve revenue accruable to government; and hasten vessel reception and cargo clearance procedures.
The systems also reduce cargo turnaround time and ultimate reduction of costs of doing business; enhance the determination of freight cost and actual value of sea freight in the transport chain; and provide credible data and statistics on oil sales, import and export volume, among others.
According to the release, the introduction of the CTN is in fulfillment of the Port’s Management vision to modernize its operations and facilitate legitimate trade in line with international best practices.NPA Managing Director Bill Twehway told journalists on Wednesday, 3 October that he held a meeting with leading shipping companies in Liberia to acquaint them with the new system expected to be put in place.
“We want the companies to be aware of the CTN and how the tracking system will operate at the ports of entrances,” he says.
“You and I know that many people do not declare the actual goods that are brought in the country; but if you are tracking the cargos that come in and leave the country and whatever tariff that is needed to be paid will be known accurately by the tracking system or the CTN,” he adds.
The NPA boss further says the ports of Liberia will be on par in meeting international standard. The NPA indicates that Liberia will benefit economically from the operation of the company here.–Press release
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